In-solenoid chip for undertaking plural functions

ABSTRACT

A vehicle antitheft system includes a MOSFET with associated power and logic circuitry embodied by a chip that can be housed within a starter solenoid housing for preventing control current from activating the solenoid unless an authorized enable signal is received. The enable signal can be transmitted by a hand-held rf transmitter. The chip can also undertake additional functions. In alternate embodiments, the MOSFET can be disposed in a housing separate from the solenoid and mounted near the solenoid, and the MOSFET can be controlled by an rf-generated enable signal or by an impulse-generated enable signal. In the latter case, the MOSFET is activated to close the solenoid control current circuit path only when a single impulse signal, e.g., from a door latch lock, is activated. If two impulse signals are received, one from, e.g., the door latch lock and another from, e.g., a locking mechanism/switch inside the vehicle, the MOSFET is not activated, to prevent a thief from actuating the system by breaking into the vehicle and unlocking the vehicle door from inside the vehicle.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part of co-pending PCTapplication PCT/US99/02102, filed Feb. 1, 1999, which claims priorityfrom co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/020,585 for aninvention entitled "Antitheft Interrupt System for Vehicle Starter PowerCircuit" filed Feb. 2, 1998, which in turn is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/680,779, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,713,321for an invention entitled "Antitheft Interrupt System for VehicleStarter Power Circuit" filed Jul. 16, 1996, which in turn is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/577,977, now U.S.Pat. No. 5,564,376, filed Dec. 22, 1995, said applications and patentsbeing assigned to the same assignee as the present invention, andincorporated herein by reference. The present invention claims priorityfrom all of the above-referenced applications and patents.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to vehicles, and moreparticularly to override-resistant vehicle antitheft systems.

BACKGROUND

Vehicle antitheft systems have been provided that function by disablinga component in the ignition system of a vehicle unless a security codeis transmitted to the system prior to starting the vehicle. An exampleof such a device is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,733,638 to Anderson,which discloses a transmitting device that can be manually operated toenergize a relay within the casing of a vehicle starter motor. In turn,the relay, once energized, closes an auxiliary contact that is alsolocated in the casing of the starter motor to thereby complete theelectrical path from the vehicle's battery to a conventional startersolenoid. In accordance with well-known principles, when the ignitionkey is rotated to close the ignition switch, the starter solenoid bothengages the Bendix gear of the starter with the vehicle flywheel, andcloses a conventional starter switch to complete the electrical pathbetween the battery and the starter motor to turn the Bendix gear andflywheel, thereby starting the vehicle.

Accordingly, the Anderson device, like many if not most such antitheftsystems, does not directly control power to a starter motor, but ratherindirectly controls power to the starter motor by controlling power tothe starter solenoid. A principal reason why power to the solenoid iscontrolled is that the electrical current drawn by the solenoid is muchless than the current drawn by the starter motor, thus permitting theuse of relatively small, inexpensive auxiliary contacts by the antitheftsystems.

In our above-referenced U.S. Pat. No. 5,564,376, we recognized thatwhile somewhat effective, existing antitheft systems have certaindrawbacks. For example, because many of its components are locatedwithin the casing of the starter motor, the Anderson device mentionedabove cannot be easily integrated with existing starter motors. Further,from the above discussion it will be appreciated that the Andersondevice is intended for use with ignition systems wherein the solenoid ishoused with the starter motor. Indeed, the Anderson device cannot beused in conjunction with ignition systems wherein the solenoid is notco-housed with the starter motor.

In our prior patents we have also recognized that antitheft systemswhich can disable a starter solenoid that is housed apart from thestarter motor can be, under certain circumstances, relatively easy todefeat because the solenoid is typically mounted in a location on thevehicle that relatively easy to access, compared to accessing thestarter motor, and requires the jumpering of a relatively small amountof current, compared to the current that must be jumpered to defeat acircuit element in the main power line to the starter motor. For thesereasons, we have provided a vehicle antitheft system which can be easilyand quickly mounted in a comparatively inaccessible location, i.e., onthe starter motor casing, which is difficult to defeat by jumpering, andwhich can be used in conjunction with existing stock starter motors.

Nevertheless, the present invention recognizes that some users desiresolenoid disablement instead of starter motor power interrupt, becauseit is easier and less expensive to disable a solenoid as opposed tointerrupting the main power to the starter motor. As understood herein,past solenoid-based security systems, such as that disclosed in PCTapplication no. WO 81/03002 to Blais, have drawbacks including thefailure to recognize the importance of voltage regulation in antitheftsystems that are powered by sources such as car batteries that do notalways produce constant voltages. Accordingly, the present inventionprovides embodiments that address these considerations. Moreover, thepresent invention understands that a solenoid-housed control chipadvantageously can undertake functions in addition to the anti-theftfunction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A starter solenoid includes a solenoid housing and a chip mounted in thehousing. In accordance with the present invention, the chip includeslogic for generating at least two control signals respectively usefulfor undertaking at least two functions.

In a preferred embodiment, the chip receives command signals andgenerates the control signals in response thereto. At least some commandsignals can be received from a hand held command signal generator, andother command signals can be received from sensors. As an example, anantitheft function can be undertaken by the chip. In this example, theactivating coil of the solenoid has an input terminal, and the chipcommunicates with an antitheft system in the solenoid. The antitheftsystem includes at least one MOSFET in electrical series with the inputterminal of the activating coil for actuating the solenoid upon receiptof a control signal from the chip. Other control signals generated bythe chip can include: voltage regulation/control signals, voltageindication signals, remote start signals, multi-function disablingsignals, positioning signals, low voltage protect signals, motion/impactalarm signals, tilt alarm signals, proximity signals, vehicle componentcontrol signals.

In another aspect, a combined antitheft system and control signalgenerator system for a starter solenoid of a vehicle includes at leastone power switch in electrical series with a terminal of the activatingcoil of the solenoid for actuating the solenoid upon receipt of ananti-theft control signal. As intended by the present invention, thepower switch is located in the housing. A logic chip is also in thehousing for generating the anti-theft control signal and for generatingat least one other control signal in addition to the anti-theft controlsignal.

In still another aspect, a starter solenoid includes a solenoid housing,an activating coil in the housing, and an antitheft system disposed inthe solenoid housing. The antitheft system includes at least one powerswitch in electrical series with the activating coil for actuating thesolenoid. Also, a chip is in the housing, and the chip contains at leasta portion of the antitheft system. The chip generates at least onecontrol signal useful by a system other than the antitheft system.

The details of the present invention, both as to its structure andoperation, can best be understood in reference to the accompanyingdrawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts, and inwhich:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the antitheft system of the presentinvention, shown in its intended environment, with portions cut away forclarity;

FIG. 2 is a partially schematic view of the antitheft system of thepresent invention, with portions shown in phantom;

FIG. 3 is an electrical schematic view of the control circuit;

FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the housing of the presentinvention with mounting adapters;

FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation of structurebetween the housing of the present invention and a vehicular startingcurrent arrangement in which a starter motor has a solenoid combinedintegrally therewith;

FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram showing the cooperation of structurebetween the housing of the present invention and a vehicular startingcurrent arrangement in which a starter motor is physically distancedfrom its associated solenoid;

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the housing shownschematically in FIGS. 5A and 5B;

FIG. 7 is a schematic view of the present antitheft device incorporatedin the control current line of a starter solenoid, showing the controlcurrent line in phantom;

FIG. 8 is a schematic view of the present antitheft device incorporatedin the starter solenoid housing, showing the control current line inphantom;

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing the logic of the present invention inprogramming the control circuit to receive one of a plurality ofuser-selected transmitter signals;

FIG. 10 is a schematic rendering of a computer program device;

FIG. 11 is an electrical schematic diagram of the power switches shownin FIG. 6;

FIG. 12 is an electrical schematic diagram of the power supply circuitfor the electronic components of the device shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 13 is an electrical schematic diagram of the control circuit forthe device shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 14 is an electrical schematic diagram of the gate control circuitfor the device shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 15 is an electrical schematic diagram of the receiver filter andadaptive slicer circuit;

FIG. 16 is an alternate electrical schematic diagram of the powercircuit;

FIG. 17 is an alternate electrical schematic diagram of the controlcircuit;

FIG. 18 is an alternate electrical schematic diagram of the gate controlcircuit;

FIG. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the present system integratedwithin a solenoid housing;

FIG. 19A is a schematic representation of the multi-function logicexecuted by the chip shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 20 is an exploded perspective view of the present system asintended for externally mounted engagement with a solenoid;

FIG. 21 is an exploded perspective view of an alternate system asintended for externally mounted engagement with a solenoid; and

FIG. 22 is a flow chart of the logic of the impulse-operated solenoiddevice.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Referring initially to FIG. 1, the intended environment of the presentinvention can be seen. A motor vehicle, generally designated 200,includes an ignition switch 202 that can be closed by means of a key 204to complete the electrical path between a battery 206 and a startermotor 208 and thereby start the engine 210 of the vehicle 200.Specifically, in a conventional ignition system, when the ignitionswitch 202 is closed, a starter solenoid 212 is electrically connectedto the battery 206, energizing the solenoid 212. In turn, the solenoid212 engages a so-called Bendix gear 214 with the flywheel 216 of thevehicle 200. Also, in a conventional ignition system the solenoid 212closes a starter switch 218 (FIG. 2) in a starting current power line220 to complete the electrical circuit between the battery 206 and thestarter motor 208. Thereby, the starter motor 208, which is coupled tothe Bendix gear 214, is caused to rotate the Bendix gear 214 and, hence,the flywheel 216, starting the engine 210.

It will be appreciated that the current flowing through the startingcurrent power line 220 must be relatively high to generate the torquenecessary to turn the flywheel 216. The intention of the presentinvention is to interpose an antitheft system, which is responsive to acoded signal, in the starting current power line 220 between the battery206 and the starter motor 208. Consequently, as the present inventionrecognizes, jumpering of the antitheft system is made difficult in thatrelatively high starting current must be jumpered to do so. Further, inthe preferred embodiment the antitheft system of the present inventionis physically juxtaposed with the starter motor 208, which is typicallylocated in a location that is difficult to access. By "physicallyjuxtaposed" is meant that the antitheft system is mounted on or within afew inches of the starter motor 208. Consequently, physically tamperingwith the present antitheft system is inhibited.

With the above disclosure in mind, in cross-reference to FIGS. 1 and 2an antitheft system, generally designated 10, includes a hollow plasticor metal housing 12 that is mounted on a casing 222 of the starter motor208 by appropriate means. As but one example of how the housing 12 canbe mounted on the starter motor casing 222, a bracket 14 (FIG. 1) issurroundingly engaged with the housing 12 and casing 222 to clamp thehousing 12 against the casing 222.

Alternatively, referring briefly to FIG. 4, an antitheft system,generally designated 300, includes a housing 302. The system 300 shownin FIG. 4 is in all essential respects identical in configuration andoperation to the system 10 shown in FIGS. 1-3, except that the housing302 can be juxtaposed with a starter motor casing by means of rigidmetal mounting adapters 304, 306. More specifically, a starter/solenoidadapter 304 includes an elongate electrically conductive shank 308 thatis in electrical contact with components within the housing 302 inaccordance with principles discussed below, and the adapter 304 includesa hollow eye 310 on the end of the shank 308 that is opposed to thehousing 302. It will readily be appreciated that the eye 310 can befastened to a starter solenoid lug in electrical contact therewith, bothto support the housing 302 and to effect electrical communicationbetween the starter/solenoid and the components within the housing 302.Likewise, a rigid elongate electrically conductive battery adapter 306is in electrical contact with components within the housing 302 inaccordance with principles discussed below, and the adapter 306 includesa partially threaded end 312 that is opposed to the housing 302 forestablishing a lug onto which a battery cable can be fastened, tofurther support the housing 302 and to effect electrical communicationbetween the battery and the components within the housing 302.

Referring back to FIG. 2, the starter motor 208 includes windings 224that are electrically coupled to an externally threaded power terminal226, as indicated by the dashed line 228. The power terminal 226 extendsoutwardly from the casing 222. In accordance with well-known principles,the power terminal 226 establishes a means by which the battery 206 canbe electrically connected to the starter motor 208 to energize thewindings 224, thereby activating the starter motor 208 to turn theBendix gear 212.

FIG. 2, however, shows that instead of connecting the starting currentpower line 220 directly to the power terminal 226 of the starter motor208 as in a conventional ignition system, per the present invention thepower line 220 is connected to an externally threaded terminal 16 of theantitheft system 10 by means of a battery connector 230. As can beappreciated in reference to FIG. 2, the battery connector 230 is heldonto the terminal 16 in electrical contact therewith by a nut 18 that isthreadably engaged with the terminal 16.

In turn, the terminal 16 is electrically connected to a power switch 20that is disposed in the housing 12. Additionally, FIG. 2 shows that thepower switch 20 is electrically connected to a starter connector 22. Ascan be appreciated in reference to FIG. 2, the starter connector 22 isheld onto the power terminal 226 of the starter motor 208 in electricalcontact therewith by a nut 232 that is threadably engaged with the powerterminal 226.

Thus, in accordance with the present invention and as shown in FIG. 2,the power switch 20 is connected in electrical series in the startingcurrent power line between the battery 206 and the starter motor 208.Consequently, in the present invention the starter motor cannot receivecurrent from the battery 206, even when the starter switch 218 of thevehicle 200 is closed, unless the power switch 20 is also closed.Furthermore, as described below, the power switch 20 closes to completethe electrical circuit between the battery 206 and starter motor 208only when a control circuit 24 in the housing 12 receives an enablesignal from an enable signal generator 26 (FIG. 1).

Advantageously, the enable signal generator 26 is a hand-held (and thusportable) manipulable device which can be conveniently coupled to thekey 204. In one embodiment, the generator 26 is a radiofrequency (rf)amplitude modulated (AM) transmitter model No. TX-99K, made by Ming, ora transmitter made by Place. When appropriately manipulated, thegenerator 26 broadcasts a coded enable signal to the control circuit 24to close the power switch 20. If desired, the control circuit 24 can be"trained" to accept the code of a preexisting rf transmitter that isconcurrently used for, e.g., remotely opening the door locks of thevehicle 200 as a person approaches the vehicle 200.

FIG. 3 shows the details of one control circuit 24, it being understoodthat certain figures below show an alternate circuit of the presentinvention. If desired, the circuits of the present invention can beembodied as application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) chips.Alternatively, for low power solenoid applications the circuits can beimplemented within a ceramic substrate, with the present power switchbeing established within the substrate. As yet another alternative, thepower devices and/or control chips/circuits described below can beestablished by raw silicon wafers which are bonded to a ceramicsubstrate and the bond wire connected directly to the substrate.

As shown, a voltage regulator 28 is connected in parallel with thebattery 206 to hold the gate drive voltage constant at +12 volts dcregardless of input voltage, and to restrict the voltage drop across thedevice at or below a threshold voltage, preferably less than 1/4 voltdc. The regulator 28 includes a twelve volt power output port +V_(o)that is connected to a control circuit power line L_(p). Also, theregulator 28 includes a ground port -V_(o) that is connected to acontrol circuit ground line L_(g) having an isolated ground G1. Inaccordance with the present invention, the regulator 28 maintains aconstant voltage in the control circuit 24 while the power switch 20 isclosed and the engine 210 is cranking during start-up. In oneembodiment, the voltage regulator 28 is a type 4007 12 volt power modulemade by Burr-Brown.

As shown in FIG. 3, an input capacitor C1 is connected in parallel withthe battery 206 and the input ports of the regulator 28. Also, an outputcapacitor C2 is connected in parallel with the output port +V_(o) andground port -V_(o) of the regulator 28. Example values of the resistorsand capacitors of the present invention are set forth in Table 1 below.

An enable signal receiver 30 is connected to the power line L_(p). Inone embodiment, the receiver 30 is a type RE-99 receiver made by Ming.More preferably, the present receiver is a type KESRX01 receiver made byPlessey operating at three hundred fifteen million Hertz (315 MHz) thatuses a quarter wave monopole antenna. In accordance with the presentinvention, the receiver 30 receives the enable signal from the enablesignal generator 26 (FIG. 1), and in response sends a control signal toa timer 32 via a control signal line L_(c).

The timer 32 can be a chip trigger timer, and more specifically a type556 dual timer made by, e.g., National Semiconductor. Accordingly, theskilled artisan will recognize that the timer 32 receives a relativelyshort duration control signal from the receiver 30 and outputs arelatively longer duration output pulse at first and second output portsT_(out) ¹ and T_(out) ².

As shown in FIG. 3, the timer 32 is connected to the ground line L_(g)via a timer regulator line L_(tr) and a capacitor C3. Additionally, thetimer 32 is connected to a first time delay capacitor C4 as shown, andthe first time delay capacitor C4 is connected to the timer regulatorline L_(tr) via two resistors R1, R2. A second time delay capacitor C5is connected between the timer 32 and ground in parallel with the firsttime delay capacitor C4. Moreover, as shown a ground port GND of thetimer 32 is connected directly to ground, while a power port PWR of thetimer 32 is connected to the power line L_(p). In the embodiment shown,a resistor R3 is connected between the power line L_(p) and the controlsignal line L_(c).

As intended by the present invention, the timer 32 in combination withthe time delay capacitors C4, C5 resistors R1, R2 establishes a timedelay circuit that defines a predetermined enable period, during whichperiod the power switch 20 is closed as further disclosed below. In oneembodiment, the predetermined enable period is about one minute inlength. Additionally, the receiver 30 with resistor R3 establishes atrigger circuit for triggering the timer 32 to output voltages at theoutput ports T_(out) ¹ and T_(out) ². It is accordingly to be understoodthat the output voltages are generated at T_(out) ¹ and T_(out) ² onlyduring the entire enable period.

Continuing with the description of the control circuit 24 shown in FIG.3, the first output port T_(out) ¹ is connected to the base of a type2N2222 alarm transistor Q1 via a resistor R4. In turn, the collector ofthe alarm transistor Q1 is connected to an audible alarm 34. A type1N4001 protect diode D1 is connected in parallel to the alarm 34 asshown. In one presently embodiment, the alarm 34 is a piezoelectricbeeper that emits a beeping sound during the predetermined enableperiod. As shown, the alarm 34 is connected to the power line L_(p) viaan alarm line L_(a), with the emitter of the alarm transistor Q1 beingconnected to ground.

FIG. 3 also shows that the second output port T_(out) ² is connected tothe base of a type 2N2222 driver transistor Q2 via a resistor R5. Inturn, the collector of the driver transistor Q2 is connected to the baseof a type 2N2222 power switch transistor Q3 via a resistor R6. As alsoshown, the collector of the driver transistor Q2 is connected to thepower line L_(p) via a resistor R7, and the collector of the powerswitch transistor Q3 is connected to the power line L_(p) as well, witha resistor R8 separating the connections of the transistors Q2, Q3 tothe power line L_(p). The emitters of both the driver transistor Q2 andpower switch transistor Q3 are connected to ground as shown. In thecircuit shown, an RC circuit including a capacitor C6 and resistor R9 isconnected between ground and the power line L_(p).

As shown in FIG. 3, the power switch 20 is connected to the power lineL_(p) between the resistor R8 and the RC circuit established by thecapacitor C6 and resistor R9 for controlling the power switch 20. Thepower switch 20 can be a solid state power switch, such as a fieldeffect transistor, bipolar transistor, or silicon controller rectifier(SCR). As recognized by the present invention, by making the powerswitch 20 an SCR, repeated reliable cycling of the power switch 20 isfacilitated, notwithstanding the fact that it must pass the relativelyhigh current in the starting current power line 220.

With the above disclosure in mind, the operation of the antitheft system10 can be appreciated. A person can manipulate the enable signalgenerator 26 (FIG. 1) to generate an enable signal. The enable signalreceiver 30 (FIG. 3) receives the signal and triggers the timer 32 tooutput voltages at its output ports T_(out) ¹ and T_(out) ² for thepredetermined enable period defined by the time delay circuit describedabove.

In response to the output signal at the first output port T_(out) ¹, thealarm transistor Q1 causes the alarm 34 to beep, indicating that theignition system of the vehicle 200 is enabled. Simultaneously, inresponse to the output signal at the second output port T_(out) ², thedriver transistor Q2 and power switch transistor Q3 send a controlsignal to the power switch 20 to cause it to close.

While the power switch 20 is closed during the predetermined period, theignition system of the vehicle 200 is enabled. Consequently, a personcan engage the key 204 with the ignition switch 202 and start the engine210 by turning the key 204. On the other hand, in the absence of anenable signal or after the predetermined period has elapsed,manipulation of the key 204 cannot start the vehicle 200, because theelectrical path between the battery 206 and starter motor 208 isinterrupted by the open power switch 20.

                  TABLE 1                                                         ______________________________________                                               Component                                                                             Value (farads/ohms)                                            ______________________________________                                               C1      10           μF                                                    C2      10           μF                                                    C3      47           μF                                                    C4      47           μF                                                    C5      10           μF                                                    C6      .01          μF                                                    R1      1.1          MΩ                                                 R2      180          KΩ                                                 R3      10           KΩ                                                 R4      470Ω                                                            R5      470Ω                                                            R6      240Ω                                                            R7      240Ω                                                            R8      75Ω                                                             R9      1            KΩ                                          ______________________________________                                    

As mentioned above and as shown in greater detail in reference to FIGS.5A and 5B, an antitheft system, generally designated 400, for holdingthe power switch and accompanying circuitry of the present invention canbe suspended between and thereby supported by a battery power line and astarter motor power line. This support can be exclusive, or in additionto other support means, e.g., brackets and the like. The antitheftsystem 400 is in all essential respects identical to the system 10 shownin FIGS. 1-3, with the exceptions noted below.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5A, a starting current power line,generally designated 402, which is in all essential respects identicalto the starting current power line 220 shown in FIG. 1, can be cut near(i.e., within a few inches of) a starter motor "STARTER" having asolenoid "S" combined integrally therewith to establish a battery powerline 404 and a starter motor power line 406. It will be appreciated thatthe starter motor power line 406 is electrically connected to thestarter motor windings via the starter switch of the solenoid "S", andthe starter motor power line is coupled to the housing. Also, thebattery power line 404 is electrically connected to a battery "BATTERY"and mechanically coupled to the system 400, such that the system 400 issupported only by the power lines 404, 406.

In some vehicles, the solenoid "S" is not physically combined with thestarter motor, but the above-disclosed combination of structure cannevertheless be used. FIG. 5B shows schematically shows such a vehicle,wherein a starting current power line, generally designated 408, is cutbetween a solenoid "S" and a starter motor "START" to establish abattery power line 410 and a starter motor power line 412. It will beappreciated that the starter motor power line 412 is electricallyconnected to the starter motor windings, and the starter motor powerline 412 is coupled to the housing. Also, the battery power line 410 iselectrically connected to a battery "BATTERY" via the starter switch ofthe solenoid "S" and is mechanically coupled to the system 400, suchthat the system 400 is supported only by the power lines 410, 412.

Now referring to FIG. 6, the details of the system 400 schematicallyshown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, can be seen. An elongated,parallelepiped-shaped copper or copper-alloy input bus bar 414 isattached to a first flat, parallelepiped-shaped, electrically insulativecircuit board 416 at a first surface 416a of the circuit board 416.Plural type TO220 or type IRL3705N MOSFETs 418 are soldered to orotherwise held against the input bus bar 414 in electrical contacttherewith. In the preferred embodiment, five MOSFETs 418 are soldered toa first long vertical side 420 of the input bus bar 414, and fiveMOSFETs 418 are soldered to a second long vertical side 422 of the inputbus bar 414, it being readily understood in reference to FIG. 6 that thefirst long side 420 is opposed to the second long side 422. The MOSFETspreferably are L-channel MOSFETs to conserve energy consumption.

In turn, the MOSFETs 418 are in electrical contact with, and preferablyin direct physical contact with, a flat, U-shaped, relatively wide(e.g., about five to ten millimeters in width "W"), electricallyconductive trace 424 that is embedded in the first circuit board 416near the first surface 416a. Moreover, the trace 424 is electricallyconnected to and is preferably in physical contact with a copper orcopper-alloy parallelepiped-shaped output bus bar 426. Preferably, thetrace 424 is made of copper having a thickness of about fourteenthousandths of an inch (0.014"). The skilled artisan will recognize thatthe trace 424 has a thickness about ten times normal, to enable thetrace 424 to carry high starting current.

As shown in FIG. 6, the input bus bar 414 is formed with a centralbattery channel 428 that is parallel to the sides 420, 422 of the busbar 414. Also, the output bus bar 426 is formed with a central startermotor channel (not shown in FIG. 6) that is generally colinear with thebattery channel 428.

Per the present invention, either one of the battery power lines 404,410 shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B is advanced into the battery channel 428 inelectrical contact therewith. Then, two input set screws 432, 434 thatare oriented perpendicular to the battery channel 428 and that arethreadably engaged with the input bus bar 414 are tightened against thebattery power line. In the preferred embodiment, one of the input setscrews 432, 434 has a relatively blunt end for crushing the conductor inthe power line to promote electrical contact therebetween, and the otherinput set screw 434, 432 has a relatively pointed end for piercing theinsulation of the battery power line and thereby firmly holding thepower line in the battery channel 428. Similarly, either one of thestarter motor power lines 406, 412 shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B is advancedinto the starter motor channel in electrical contact therewith. Then,two output set screws 436, 438 that are oriented perpendicular to thechannel and that are threadably engaged with the output bus bar 426 aretightened against the starter motor power line. In the preferredembodiment, one of the output set screws 436, 438 has a relatively bluntend, and the other output set screw 438, 436 has a relatively pointedend for piercing the insulation of the starter motor power line andthereby firmly holding the power line in the starter motor channel and,hence, holding the device 400 in suspension between the battery powerline and starter motor power line. Prevailing torque compound can bedeposited on the screws 432, 434, 436, 438 to prevent the screws fromloosening under vibratory loads.

With the above disclosure in mind, the system 400 shown in FIG. 6incorporates a solid state power switch that is established by theMOSFETs 418, for selectively connecting either one of the batteriesshown in FIGS. 5A and 5B with the windings of the associated startermotor. As intended by the present invention, the circuit board 416 isseparated from a second circuit board 439 by an air gap, with the secondcircuit board 439 defining a second surface 439a that is opposite thefirst surface 416a.

The distance between the first and second surfaces 416a, 439a is aboutfive millimeters (5 mm). Electronic control circuitry for controllingthe power switch is mounted on the second surface 439a, such that theelectronic circuitry is sufficiently insulated from the relatively highamperage in the trace 424, near the first surface 416a. This electroniccircuitry can be substantially identical to the circuitry shown in FIG.2, or it can be the circuitry shown in FIGS. 11-15. Moreover, to furthershield the logic circuits on the second surface 439a from the effects ofthe high current in the bus bars, a ground plane 440 can cover thesecond surface 439a. The circuit boards 416, 439 with associatedstructure described above are enclosed in a plastic housing having firstand second halves 439a, 439b that can be engaged with each other usingthreaded fasteners or that can be otherwise sealed together.

FIGS. 7 and 8 show that instead of incorporating the present vehicleantitheft device in the starting current power line of a vehicle, it mayinstead be installed in the control current power line of a startersolenoid, either externally to the solenoid housing (FIG. 7) orinternally to the solenoid housing (FIG. 8). With respect to FIG. 7, anantitheft device 500 is installed in series with and supported by asolenoid control current power line 502 in a vehicle, generallydesignated 504. The vehicle 504 includes a battery as shown that sendshigh amperage (2000 or so amperes) to a starter motor via a startingcurrent power line 506 and a starter solenoid "S", when the startersolenoid "S" has been energized to close a solenoid contact 507 inresponse to an ignition signal from the ignition 508 of the vehicle 504.

It is to be understood that the antitheft device 500 shown in FIG. 7, isin all essential respects identical in operation to the antitheft device400 shown in FIG. 6, with the exception that only a single MOSFET needbe used as the power switch, owing to the relatively low amperage of thecontrol current vis-a-vis the starting current. Also, the input andoutput busses of the device 500 shown in FIG. 7 need not be as heavyduty as the busses shown in FIG. 6, again owing to the relatively lowamperage of the starter solenoid control current. Indeed, the input andoutput busses can be connectors defining channels and having retainersfor holding wire in the channels. Thus, with the present invention, theantitheft device 500 must receive an authorized enable signal to closeits power switch, to permit operation of the ignition 508 to start thevehicle. In the absence of an enable signal, operation of the ignition508 will not start the vehicle, because no control current can flow tothe solenoid "S". FIGS. 20 and 21 below show particularly preferredembodiments of the device 500.

FIG. 8 shows that the present antitheft device can be incorporated intoa starter solenoid housing 520 of a vehicle, generally designated 522.More particularly, an antitheft device 524 that is in all essentialrespects identical in operation to the antitheft device 500 shown inFIG. 7 is positioned in the solenoid housing 520 in electrical seriesbetween an ignition 526 of the vehicle 522 and an input terminal 527 ofan activating coil 528 in the solenoid housing 520. In accordance withwell-known means, the activating coil 528, when energized by controlcurrent from a vehicle battery via a control current power line 530 inresponse to the ignition 526, closes a solenoid contact 532 to therebycomplete an electrical path from the battery to the starter motor of thevehicle 522. As can be appreciated in reference to FIG. 8, with thepresent invention, the antitheft device 524 must receive an authorizedenable signal to close its power switch, to permit operation of theignition 526 to start the vehicle. In the absence of an enable signal, apath for electrical communication to the coil 528 does not exist; hence,no control current can energize the coil 528 and, thus, the solenoidcontact 532 will remain open. FIG. 19 below shows a particularlypreferred implementation of the device 524.

In addition to the above inventive structure, the present inventionpermits a user to tailor any one of the antitheft devices disclosedherein to operate in response to a user-selected enable signalgenerator. Accordingly, the present invention can incorporate a computerprogram device, such as, e.g., an application specific integratedcircuit or other logic device that can be associated with the presentcontrol circuit, to "train" the antitheft device to actuate upon receiptof one of a plurality of user-defined enable signal codes. The computerprogram may be executed by a processor, such as one or both of theprocessors shown below in FIG. 13, within the control circuit as aseries of computer-executable instructions. These instructions mayreside, for example, in RAM or ROM. Alternatively, the instructions maybe contained on a data storage device with a computer readable medium,such as a computer diskette. Or, the instructions may be stored on aDASD array, magnetic tape, conventional hard disk drive, electronicread-only memory, optical storage device, or other appropriate datastorage device. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, thecomputer-executable instructions may be lines of compiled C or C⁺⁺compatible code, or appropriate machine code.

FIG. 9 illustrates the structure of such instructions as embodied in acomputer program. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that FIG. 9illustrates the structures of computer program code elements thatfunction according to this invention. Manifestly, the invention ispracticed in its essential embodiment by a machine component thatrenders the computer program code elements in a form that instructs adigital processing apparatus (that is, a computer) to perform a sequenceof function steps corresponding to those shown in the FIGS. The machinecomponent is shown in FIG. 10 as a combination of program code elementsA-D in computer readable form that are embodied in a computerusable datamedium 534, on a computer diskette 536. As mentioned above, however,such media can also be found in semiconductor devices, on magnetic tape,and on optical disks.

Commencing at block 548 of FIG. 9, the device is connected as discussedabove to a power source, preferably a vehicle battery. The logic thenmoves to block 552, wherein the device enters a learn mode. In analternate embodiment, the logic can determine whether the power up isthe initial power up, and permit entering the learn mode at block 552only when the power up is the initial power up or upon reception of apreviously authorized code, as an added measure of security.

In the learn mode, a user can generate one or more enable signal codesfrom one or more enable signal generators that the user might want touse to operate the present antitheft system, including a remotegenerator such as the generator 26 shown in FIG. 1. After entering thelearn mode, a timer is started and, if it is determined at decisiondiamond 554 that a predetermined time out period has not elapsed, atransmitter code is received at block 556 as a proposed enable signal.To designate the proposed enable signal as an authorized enable code,the proposed enable signal must be received a second time within apredetermined time out period. Thus, after the first receipt of aproposed enable signal, program control continues to decision diamond558, wherein it is determined whether another predetermined time ourperiod has elapsed. When a second transmission of a proposed enablesignal is received within the time out period, the process moves toblock 560 to receive the second transmission and then record theproposed enable signal as a verified, authorized enable code at block562. The process then loops back to decision diamond 554 to recordadditional enable codes, if desired, or to time out and exit the learnmode. It is to be understood that as mentioned above, during the firstentry of the learn mode, a bit can be set indicating that the device hasexperienced an initial power up, if desired, as an added measure ofsecurity. As shown in FIG. 9, when the device times out of the learnmode from decision diamonds 554, 558, the device enters the operatingmode at block 564.

From block 564, program control resumes at decision diamond 566 whereinit is determined whether a valid (i.e., authorized) enable code has beenreceived. When such an authorized code has been received, programcontrol resumes at decision diamond 568 to determine whether the codehas been received continuously for a predetermined period, i.e., whetherthe user has evinced a desire to enter the learn mode by continuouslydepressing the transmitter button or key. When the test at decisiondiamond 568 is positive, the logic moves to decision diamond 570 todetermine whether the code has been received again within apredetermined time out period, as verification that the user wants toenter the learn mode. It is to be understood that light emitting diodes(LEDs) can be mounted on the device 400 and illuminated periodically topresent a visual signal that the logic has received the first signal atdecision diamond 568. Once the second (verification) signal is receivedat decision diamond 570, the LEDs can be illuminated continuously toindicate entry into the learn mode.

If the user did not depress the transmitter key sufficiently long toachieve a positive test at decision diamond 568, or if the user did notkey the transmitter a second time to verify entering the learn mode atdecision diamond 570, the logic proceeds to block 572 to close the powerswitch, and then the logic moves back to block 564. On the other hand,if the verification is determined as being received at decision diamond570, the logic moves to block 576 to clear all previous codes, and thenthe logic moves to the learn mode at block 552.

FIGS. 11-15 are schematic diagrams of the circuitry of the device 400shown in FIG. 6. It is to be understood that the components shown inFIGS. 11-15 can be physically mounted on the second circuit board 439shown in FIG. 6. It is to be further understood that FIGS. 11-15 useconventional symbols to depict the various circuit components, with thecircuit components being generically labelled as appropriate and shownwith accompanying preferred component values. Also, manufacturers namesare shown in parentheses in FIGS. 11-15 where appropriate, adjacent thecomponent corresponding to the manufacturer, as are manufacturer partnumbers. Values of resistors are given in Ohms and values of capacitorsare given in microFarads unless otherwise noted.

FIG. 11 shows the circuitry of the MOSFETs 418 shown in FIG. 6. In FIG.11, the MOSFETs 418 are labelled Q1-Q10, and are shown electricallyconnected to the trace 424. A snubber circuit 580 can be provided asshown in accordance with well-known principles.

FIG. 12 shows an exemplary power supply circuit 582 that can be used toprovide five volt dc (5 vdc) voltage V_(cc) to the circuitry shown inFIGS. 13 and 14. Like the circuit shown in FIG. 3, the circuit shown inFIG. 12 can include a voltage regulator 584, preferably a typeMIC2954-03BS regulator made by Micrel, to ensure that the controlcircuitry discussed below is supplied a constant five volts stepped downfrom the vehicle battery that is connected at the junction labelled "J1"in FIG. 12.

FIG. 13 shows an exemplary control circuit 586 that includes a mastermicroprocessor 588 which controls a slave microprocessor 590 in responseto, among other things, signals received at a junction labelled "RXDATA"in FIG. 13. The microprocessors 588, 590 respectively can be a typePIC12C509 microchip and a type HCS512-I/SO microchip that operate inaccordance with the logic shown in FIG. 9 to control the device 400shown in FIG. 6. It is to be understood that the present rf receiver(e.g., the receiver 30 discussed above) is connected to the junction"RXADATA", and the control circuit 586 outputs control signals to thegate control circuit shown in FIG. 14 at a junction labelled "ENABLE" inFIG. 13 in accordance with the principles discussed above. The controlcircuit 586 includes a timer 592 as shown, preferably a type ICM7555IDtimer made by Phillips Electronics Corp.

FIG. 14 shows an exemplary gate control circuit 594 that receivessignals from the control circuit 586 shown in FIG. 13 at the junctionlabelled "ENABLE" for controlling the gates of the MOSFETs 418 shown inFIGS. 6 and 11. As shown, the gate control circuit 594 includes afeedback outcontrol chip 596 made, in one preferred embodiment, by TexasInstruments under the part number TL494ID. When the antitheft device isnot actuated, e.g., during periods when the time delay circuit has timedout after the elapse of the predetermined enable period, the gatecontrol circuit 594 is isolated from the battery to ensure that theMOSFETs cannot be partially on. Although FIG. 14 shows that thisisolation can be accomplished by an isolation device such as atransformer "T", referring briefly to FIG. 18 in the presently preferredembodiment the isolation device is established by a solid state chiplabelled "isolation", preferably a type MIC2954 chip.

FIG. 15 shows a noise suppression and adaptive slicer circuit 600 thatincludes a two-stage operational amplifier as shown, and various noisesuppression elements as shown, for increasing the operational range ofthe preferred receiver 30. A first lead 602 of the noise suppression andadaptive slicer circuit 600 is connected to the DF2 pin (pin #22) of thepreferred Plessey receiver, and a second lead 604 of the noisesuppression and adaptive slicer circuit 600 is connected to the DSN pin(pin #10) of the preferred Plessey receiver.

FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 show alternate, presently preferred embodiments ofthe power board, control logic as implemented on a logic board, and gatecontrol logic as implemented on a logic board. Included in the powerboard shown in FIG. 16 is a transient voltage suppressor (TVS), such asa Zener diode "D4" or other voltage spike suppressor, to protect thepower components from damage from voltage spikes. Similarly, one or moreTVS, such as TVS Zener diodes "D1", "D2" shown in FIG. 18, can beprovided to protect the logic components from transient voltage spikes.An enable component, labelled "enable" in FIG. 17 and depicted as an rfreceiver, is provided to establish an enable signal as set forth above.As discussed in relation to FIG. 21 below, however, the "enable"component alternatively can be established by an impulse logic circuit.

FIG. 19 shows a presently preferred embodiment of the in-solenoid systemshown schematically in FIG. 8. As shown, a starter solenoid 700 includesa solenoid cap 702 that is attached to a solenoid housing 704 inaccordance with well-known principles. The solenoid cap 702 includes ametal motor connector 706 and metal battery connector 708 that areelectrically connected to a vehicle starter motor and vehicle battery,respectively in accordance with principles known in the art. Also, thesolenoid cap 702 includes a metal ignition switch wire attachment 710that is electrically connected to an ignition switch of a vehicle. Onthe other hand, the solenoid housing 704 includes a solenoid plunger712, the function of which is well-known, and a solenoid coil controlwire 714, which is electrically connected to a solenoid contact such asthe contact 532 shown in FIG. 8.

With the above disclosure in mind, an antitheft interrupt device such asthe device 524 shown and described above is electrically interposedbetween the ignition switch wire attachment 710 and solenoid coilcontrol wire 714 in electrical series with the ignition system of thevehicle and the solenoid contact within the solenoid housing 704. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 19, the device 524 includes a circuit board orsubstrate 716, at least one logic chip 718 mounted thereon, and at leastone power switch 720, preferably a single MOSFET, mounted on the circuitboard or substrate 716 and operable by the logic chip 718 in response toa user signal to selectively open and close the electrical path betweenthe ignition system and the solenoid contact in accordance withprinciples disclosed above.

In addition to the logic of the present invention for selectivelyenabling current to pass through the power switch 720 and therebyactivate the solenoid 700 to permit starting an associated vehicle, thechip 718 of the present invention can include logic for generatingcontrol signals for undertaking other functions. In other words, thechip 718 that is contained in the solenoid housing 704 can include logicfor generating plural control signals useful for undertaking respectiveplural functions.

The chip 718 can receive plural command signals from, e.g., thehand-held signal generator 26 (FIG. 1) or from one or more sensors 719or other control components that can be mounted on the substrate 716 orelsewhere in the vehicle. In response to the command signals, the chip718 generates control signals that are used by other vehicle componentssuch as alarms and control circuits as described below in reference toFIG. 19A. These control signals, when more than one is to be generated,can be multiplexed over a single wire to other control components suchas the vehicle's engine control unit (ECU), to enable the functions tobe undertaken nearly simultaneously with each other.

FIG. 19A shows the additional functionality logic of the chip 718 inflow chart format, for ease of disclosure, as might be embodied incomputer software. It is to be understood, however, that the logic canbe embodied in discrete logic circuits on the chip 718.

Plural command signals can be received at receive blocks 1000, 1002 bythe chip 19A. As can be appreciated in reference to block 1000, thehand-held generator 26 can be used to generate a command signal forclosing the power switch 720, as fully discussed above. In response, ascan be appreciated in reference to generate block 1004, the logic of thechip 718 generates a control signal to cause the power switch 720 toclose. This is an example of one function that can be undertaken by thelogic of the in-solenoid chip 718.

Moreover, the hand-held generator 26 can be used to generate additionalcommand signals for additional functions, as indicated at block1000_(n). For example, by providing plural buttons on the generator 26or by toggling a single button multiple times, additional commandsignals can be transmitted to the chip 718 to cause the chip 718 togenerate additional control signals. As but one example, a commandsignal can be generated to cause the chip 718 to generate a controlsignal for starting the vehicle by, e.g., closing a switch in to bypassthe vehicle's ignition switch, thereby providing battery power at thesolenoid. Subsequent closing of the power switch 720 in response to apower switch close command signal would then result in starting theengine. In this way, a person could not only enable starting of thevehicle as the person approaches the vehicle, but can also start theengine remotely. Or, a command signal can be generated to cause the chip718 to generate a control signal to a global positioning satellite (GPS)system on the vehicle, to cause the GPS system to transmit or receivepositioning signals from a satellite. Still further, a command signalcan be generated by a person inside the vehicle when it is operating tocause the engine to stop, essentially in the reverse of the remote startsequence discussed above, in case of, e.g., a carjacking. Indeed, thegenerator 26 can be used to generate command signals to cause the chip718 to disable any number of vehicle systems. During these functions,the chip 718 can control the lighting system of the vehicle asappropriate.

As mentioned above, in addition to receiving command signals from thehand-held generator 26, the chip 718 can receive command signals fromsensors 719 or control circuits as indicated at block 1002. For example,a motion sensor can be provided in the solenoid housing or elsewhere onthe vehicle to detect motion and/or impact of the vehicle. The motionsensor, which could be a radar-implemented sensor or other sensor, wouldgenerate a command signal in response, and upon receipt of the commandsignal, the chip 718 generates a control signal to, e.g., activate analarm or other control circuit as appropriate on the vehicle, e.g., thecontrol signal can be used to activate the lights and horn of thevehicle. Similarly, a vehicle tilt sensor can send a command signal tothe chip 718 when the vehicle is unduly tilted, to cause the chip 718 togenerate a control signal that can be used by alarm or other controlcircuitry as appropriate.

In addition to the above, the chip 718 can receive command signals fromcontrol circuits of the vehicle to undertake still further functions. Asbut a few examples, the chip 718 can receive a battery voltage signaland when the voltage is too low, the chip 718 can generate a controlsignal to cause a "low voltage" warning light to illuminate, or to causea voltage meter to indicate low battery voltage. Moreover, under lowbattery voltage conditions the chip 718 can generate a control signalthat can be used to open a switch in the main battery power supply line,to prevent unwanted battery drain when the vehicle is not operating. Inthis case, if desired the main vehicle power distribution can beundertaken by appropriate circuitry within the solenoid, with theanti-battery drain switch being located in the solenoid. In its voltagesensing role, the chip 718 can also generate control signals whenvoltage spikes are sensed, to regulate and protect against such spikes.The functions above that are in addition to the solenoid enablementfunction are exemplary and in no way intended to be invention-limitingexamples.

FIGS. 20 and 21 show particular embodiments of the device 500 shown inFIG. 7. The devices shown are solenoid control current interrupt devicesthat are after market versions of the present invention for interruptingcontrol current to a starter solenoid, and that can be operated by meansof the above-described rf enable signal generator or by means of impulsesignals.

More specifically, as shown in FIG. 20, a device 800 that is in allessential respects identical to the device 500 shown in FIG. 7 includessystem housing that in one embodiment includes upper and lower hollowplastic halves 802, 804. The halves 802, 804 mate in a snapping fit orin another interference fit, and the lower half 804 is provided withengagement ribs 806 for this purpose. The halves 802, 804 can also beheld together by fasteners such as screws. According to presentprinciples, the system housing is mounted on or very near the startersolenoid of a vehicle and is electrically connected to the solenoid toselectively complete the solenoid current path when a user manipulates aportable hand-held rf signal generator.

FIG. 20 shows that the device 800 includes a power board 808 that isparallel to and connected to a logic board 810. The circuit boards 808,810 hold electrical circuits described above, e.g. the circuits shown inFIGS. 16-18. On the power board 808 is a solenoid current wire connector812 that can be electrically connected to the control line for thesolenoid, such as the line 502 shown in FIG. 8. Also, an operatingcurrent connector 814 is on the circuit board for receiving a 12 voltcircuit power signal (from, e.g., the vehicle battery) in a cavity 816,and a ground wire can be connected to a cavity 818 of the connector 814.The electrical components of the connectors 812, 814 are connected toappropriate components on the boards 808, 810 for operation as describedabove.

FIG. 21 shows a device 900 that is in all essential respects identicalto the device 800 shown in FIG. 20, except that the enable signal in thedevice 900 is not provided by an rf signal, but rather by at least oneimpulse signal generated by a component of the vehicle in which thedevice 900 is installed. The device 900 includes upper and lower hollowplastic halves 902, 904 that are mounted on or very near the startersolenoid of a vehicle and that are identical to the halves 802, 804shown in FIG. 20. Also, the device 900 includes a single circuit board906 that holds the power and logic circuits described above, e.g. thecircuits shown in FIGS. 16-18, it being understood that the device inFIG. 17 labelled as "enable" is not an rf receiver circuit but rather animpulse logic circuit that operates as discussed below, whenincorporated into the device 900 shown in FIG. 21. A solenoid currentwire connector 912 and an operating current connector 914 that areidentical to the connectors 812, 814 shown in FIG. 20 are also provided.

In accordance with present principles, an impulse connector 916 includesan enable port 918 that can receive an enable signal from a built-inconventional alarm system of a vehicle and that sends the signal to thecircuit board 906 to establish the present enable signal. As disclosedpreviously, upon receipt of the enable signal the MOSFET is gated "on",such that current is permitted to flow through the MOSFET of the device900 to the vehicle solenoid.

As an alternative means to establish the present enable signal invehicles that do not have built-in conventional alarm systems, a firstimpulse port 920 can be provided to receive a grounded lead, or a 12volt impulse signal from a vehicle component, or an interlock signalfrom a vehicle component, such as a door. More specifically, the firstimpulse port 920 can be electrically connected to a conventionalelectrical circuit of a door latch lock of the vehicle, and when thedoor is unlocked (either by using a key from outside the vehicle or bymanipulating a door lock mechanism inside the vehicle), the conventionaldoor latch lock circuit generates a signal that is received at the firstimpulse port 920.

Furthermore, the impulse connector 916 includes a second impulse port922. The second impulse port 922 is electrically connected to a vehiclecomponent for receiving a signal therefrom. In one preferred embodiment,the second impulse port 922 is electrically connected to an interiordoor lock mechanism, such that when the interior door lock mechanism ismanipulated, the second impulse port 922 receives a signal. The impulseports 920, 922 are electrically connected to the electrical componentson the circuit board 906, and in particular to the present processor orprocessors for operation described below.

With the above disclosure in mind, the logic of the device 900 can beappreciated in reference to FIG. 22. Commencing at decision diamond 930,it is determined whether the first impulse signal has been received atthe first impulse port 920. If not, the logic ends at state 932. On theother hand, when the first impulse signal is received, the logic flowsto decision diamond 934 to determine whether a second impulse signal hasbeen received at the second impulse port 922. If it has, the processends at state 932, but otherwise the process moves to block 936 to gatethe MOSFET on to permit current to flow to the solenoid (and, thus, topermit starting the vehicle). Accordingly, the device 900 enablesstarting the vehicle after a person unlocks a door by using a key (whichproduces only the first impulse signal), and not when a thief breaksinto the vehicle and unlocks a door by manipulating an interior doorlock mechanism (which produces both impulse signals).

While the particular IN-SOLENOID CHIP FOR UNDERTAKING PLURAL FUNCTIONSas herein shown and described in detail is fully capable of attainingthe above-described objects of the invention, it is to be understoodthat it is the presently preferred embodiment of the present inventionand is thus representative of the subject matter which is broadlycontemplated by the present invention, that the scope of the presentinvention fully encompasses other embodiments which may become obviousto those skilled in the art, and that the scope of the present inventionis accordingly to be limited by nothing other than the appended claims,in which reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean"one and only one" unless explicitly so stated, but rather "one ormore".

What is claimed is:
 1. A starter solenoid, comprising:a solenoidhousing; and a chip mounted in the housing and being only in wirelesscommunication with a user-manipulable input device for user activation,the chip including logic for outputting at least two control signalsrespectively useful for undertaking at least two vehicle functions, atleast one of the functions not being related to starting the vehicle. 2.The starter solenoid of claim 1, wherein the chip receives commandsignals and generates the control signals in response thereto.
 3. Thestarter solenoid of claim 2, wherein at least some command signals arereceived from a hand held command signal generator.
 4. The startersolenoid of claim 2, wherein at least some command signals are receivedfrom sensors.
 5. The starter solenoid of claim 1, further comprising:anactivating coil in the housing, the activating coil having an inputterminal for receiving control current thereat, the chip communicatingwith an antitheft system including:at least one MOSFET in electricalseries with the input terminal of the activating coil for actuating thesolenoid, the MOSFET being disposed in the solenoid housing, at leastportions of the antitheft system being contained on the chip.
 6. Thestarter solenoid of claim 1, wherein the control signals are selectedfrom the group of control signals including: voltage regulation/controlsignals, voltage indication signals, remote start signals,multi-function disabling signals, positioning signals, low voltageprotect signals, motion/impact alarm signals, tilt alarm signals,proximity signals, vehicle component control signals.
 7. The startersolenoid of claim 1, wherein at least one of the control signals is avoltage regulation/control signal.
 8. The starter solenoid of claim 1,wherein at least one of the control signals is a voltage indicationsignal.
 9. The starter solenoid of claim 1, wherein at least one of thecontrol signals is a remote start signal.
 10. The starter solenoid ofclaim 1, wherein at least one of the control signals is a multi-functiondisabling signal.
 11. The starter solenoid of claim 1, wherein at leastone of the control signals is a positioning signal.
 12. The startersolenoid of claim 1, wherein at least one of the control signals is alow voltage protect signal.
 13. The starter solenoid of claim 1, whereinat least one of the control signals is a motion/impact alarm signal. 14.The starter solenoid of claim 1, wherein at least one of the controlsignals is a tilt alarm signal.
 15. The starter solenoid of claim 1,wherein at least one of the control signals is a proximity signal. 16.The starter solenoid of claim 1, wherein at least one of the controlsignals is a vehicle component control signal.
 17. A combined antitheftsystem and control signal generator system for a starter solenoid of avehicle, the starter solenoid having a solenoid housing and anactivating coil in the housing, the system comprising:at least one powerswitch in electrical series with a terminal of the activating coil foractuating the solenoid upon receipt of an anti-theft control signal, thepower switch being located in the housing; and a logic chip in thehousing for generating the anti-theft control signal in response to onlywireless communication of a command signal and for outputting at leastone other control signal in addition to the anti-theft control signal.18. The combined antitheft system and control signal generator system ofclaim 17, wherein the chip receives command signals and generates thecontrol signals in response thereto.
 19. The combined antitheft systemand control signal generator system of claim 18, wherein at least somecommand signals are received from a hand held command signal generator.20. The combined antitheft system and control signal generator system ofclaim 18, wherein at least some command signals are received fromsensors.
 21. The combined antitheft system and control signal generatorsystem of claim 17, wherein the control signals are selected from thegroup of control signals including: voltage regulation/control signals,voltage indication signals, remote start signals, multi-functiondisabling signals, positioning signals, low voltage protect signals,motion/impact alarm signals, tilt alarm signals, proximity signals,vehicle component control signals.
 22. A starter solenoid, comprising:asolenoid housing; an activating coil in the housing; an antitheft systemdisposed in the solenoid housing, the antitheft system including:atleast one power switch in electrical series with the activating coil foractuating the solenoid in response to a first control signal from achip, the chip receiving wireless command signals and not beingconnected via wire to a user-manipulable operating device; and the chip,the chip being disposed in the housing and containing at least a portionof the antitheft system, the chip generating at least a second controlsignal useful by a system other than the antitheft system.
 23. Thestarter solenoid of claim 22, wherein the chip receives command signalsand generates the control signals in response thereto.
 24. The startersolenoid of claim 23, wherein at least some command signals are receivedfrom a hand held command signal generator.
 25. The starter solenoid ofclaim 24, wherein at least some command signals are received fromsensors.
 26. The starter solenoid of claim 25, wherein the controlsignals are selected from the group of control signals including:voltage regulation/control signals, voltage indication signals, remotestart signals, multi-function disabling signals, positioning signals,low voltage protect signals, motion/impact alarm signals, tilt alarmsignals, proximity signals, vehicle component control signals.